How Does PSTN Work?
1. Analog and Digital Signals: PSTN initially relied on analog signals but has increasingly shifted to digital signals for improved clarity and capacity. Analog signals are converted to digital form using codecs.
2. Circuit Switching: When a call is made, a dedicated circuit is established between the caller and the receiver for the duration of the call. This ensures a consistent and clear communication channel.
3. Network Components:
- Local Loop: The connection from the subscriber’s home or office to the local exchange.
- Central Office (CO): Local exchanges that connect subscriber lines to the PSTN.
- Trunks: High-capacity transmission lines that connect different exchanges.
- Switches: Devices that establish and manage the connections between different parts of the network.
4. Call Setup: When a call is initiated, the signaling system (such as SS7) is used to find a path through the network, establish the circuit, and alert the receiving party.
5. Maintenance and Operation: PSTN is maintained by telecom providers who ensure that the infrastructure is functioning optimally and can handle the volume of calls.
Private Branch Exchange (PBX):
Difference Between PSTN and PBX
Business telephone systems are classified into two main categories of systems at the present; the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the Private Branch Exchange (PBX). They are both forms of communication but there are some distinct differences between them, primarily in that they both allow for voice calls.
PSTN in its Full is referred to as the Public Switched Telephone Network, this is the network that connects all PSTN phones which are the landline phones. On the other hand, PBX or private branch exchange systems are private telephone systems that are in a company’s premises to handle the company’s internal calls and route external calls through trunk lines connected to the PSTN.
In this article the reader will learn about key differences between proximal and production networks in terms of technological platforms, ownership, functionality, scalability and pricing. We will also look at when PSTN or PBX would be ideal for an organization, the size of business, and traffic intensity.
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